The Weekly Parks and Rec Post

NEW EPISODES ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

From NRPA to SFMA: Paula Sliefert on Parks, Partnerships & Leadership

From the 2025 NRPA Convention in Orlando, Craig LeBlanc sits down with Paula Sliefert, newly appointed CEO of the Sports Field Management Association (SFMA).

With nearly two decades of experience as a supplier and a driving force behind NRPA’s Business Council, Paula shares how strategic partnerships between public and private sectors strengthen the future of parks and recreation.

Aaron Locks on Building Youth Sports & Community

What does it take to transform local coaching lessons into a nationwide movement? 🌍

In this episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show, Leadership Series, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Aaron Locks, founder of the National Academy of Athletics, to talk about his journey from being mentored by legendary coaches like John Wooden to creating a youth sports franchise that’s impacting 30,000+ kids every summer.

How Amilia is Transforming Parks & Rec with Smart Software

In this episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show, Craig LeBlanc sits down with Jason Hermes from Amilia to explore how technology is reshaping the Parks & Recreation industry.

From streamlining registrations to automating background checks and facility bookings, Amilia’s software is helping communities save time, reduce costs, and focus on what matters most—serving people.

From Community Service to Parks & Rec Leader with Lydie Gutfeld

What happens when a simple act of community service turns into a 30+ year career in Parks and Recreation? 🌳

In this episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Lydie Gutfeld, Director of Parks & Recreation in Placentia, CA, and past president of CPRS. From her unconventional start in Beverly Hills to rebuilding San Bernardino’s Parks & Rec after bankruptcy, Lydie shares her powerful story of resilience, leadership, and passion for serving communities.

Robotics, Drones & Innovation in Parks & Rec with Kim Bybee

How do parks and recreation departments innovate while balancing budgets and labor challenges? 🌳

In this episode of the NRPA Conference 2025 on The Daily Parks & Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Kim Bybee of Carrollton, Texas Parks & Rec, dubbed the “Queen of Robotics.” 👑

Kim shares how her team is leading the way in robotics, drones, autonomous mowers, and electric crews—all while improving field quality, sustainability, and efficiency. From 10-foot-wide chemical-spraying drones to Husqvarna autonomous mowers and fully electric crews, Carrollton is proving that technology isn’t just for the future—it’s transforming parks and recreation right now.

YOUTH SPORTS MASTERY: ELEVATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ATHLETES

Every Thursday, join us for a game-changing episode of Youth Sports Mastery, sponsored by the National Academy of Athletics and hosted by two powerhouses in the industry: Aaron Locks, CEO of the National Academy of Athletics, and Craig LeBlanc, founder of The Daily Parks and Rec Show. This dynamic duo brings you expert insights, tips, and strategies to help shape the future of youth sports.

This Show is for Anyone Who Cares About Kids, Community, and the Power of Play

What You Can Expect:

Each week, Aaron and Craig dive into the essential topics that every youth sports coach, athlete, and parent needs to know to succeed in the world of youth athletics. Whether you're looking to improve your coaching skills, enhance an athlete’s performance, or learn about the latest trends in youth sports, Youth Sports Mastery is your go-to resource.

Key Topics:

• Building Strong Athletic Foundations: Aaron and Craig discuss how to lay the groundwork for athletes at all levels, from youth beginners to aspiring professionals. They'll focus on physical conditioning, mental toughness, and the importance of fostering a love for the game.

• Coaching Strategies for Success: Coaches, this segment is for you! Get practical advice on developing effective practice plans, creating a positive team culture, and motivating young athletes to perform at their best while maintaining fun and enjoyment.

• Parent and Athlete Relationships: Youth sports are not just about the athletes—they're about the families supporting them. Aaron and Craig share ways parents can foster growth, confidence, and resilience in their young athletes while ensuring the experience remains positive and fulfilling.

• Tackling the Mental Game: One of the most critical aspects of youth sports is the mental side. Aaron and Craig delve into how athletes can develop focus, discipline, and a winning mindset, teaching young athletes how to push through challenges and stay mentally strong on and off the field.

• Injury Prevention and Recovery: Keeping athletes healthy is paramount. Learn from the experts on how to minimize the risk of injury through proper training techniques, recovery strategies, and maintaining peak physical condition.

Our Guest

Each week, we’re joined by an incredible lineup of guests, ranging from:

• Sports Coaches

• Professional Athletes

• Youth Sports Program Managers

• Parks & Rec Leaders

• Sports Officials

Why You Should Tune In:

• Expert Insights from Industry Leaders: With years of experience in both coaching and sports management, Aaron and Craig provide a wealth of knowledge on building athletic talent and achieving success in youth sports.

• Practical, Actionable Tips: Whether you're a coach or a parent, every episode is filled with strategies you can implement immediately to make a difference in your athlete’s performance and development.

• A Community of Support: This show is not just for listeners; it’s a platform for like-minded individuals to connect and share ideas, challenges, and successes. Through this community, we aim to create a supportive environment where youth athletes and those guiding them can thrive.

Join Us Each Thursday:

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the best in the business. Tune in every Thursday at 1:30 PM EST to Youth Sports Mastery and get the insights you need to help the next generation of athletes reach their full potential.

For Franchise Opportunities:

WHY ADVOCACY FOR PARKS & RECREATION MATTERS MORE THAN EVER

In a world that’s moving faster every day, parks and recreation remain one of the few constants that bring people together, restore balance, and strengthen communities. But these essential spaces and programs don’t thrive on their own—they rely on advocates who believe in their power to change lives.

Now more than ever, advocating for parks and recreation is not just important—it’s urgent.

💬 The Changing Landscape

Communities today face a range of challenges—public health concerns, social isolation, climate impacts, and limited public funding. Amid these pressures, it’s easy for parks and recreation to be seen as “nice-to-have” rather than “must-have.”

But anyone who’s spent time in a local park, attended a recreation class, or watched a community event unfold knows the truth:

Parks and recreation are essential services.

They improve mental and physical health, build social connections, promote inclusion, and protect our environment. When we advocate for parks and recreation, we’re not just speaking up for green spaces—we’re fighting for healthier, happier, and more connected communities.

💡 The Power of a Unified Voice

Advocacy doesn’t always mean standing at a podium or attending city council meetings (though that helps too!). It can be as simple as:

• Sharing your story about how a park or program impacted your life

• Supporting funding initiatives and community projects

• Engaging local leaders and decision-makers

• Encouraging youth and volunteers to get involved

When professionals, residents, and leaders unite their voices, we influence policy, shape public perception, and secure resources that ensure parks and recreation can continue to serve future generations.

🌱 The Time is Now

As we navigate post-pandemic realities, rising costs, and shifting priorities, the need for accessible, well-supported parks and recreation programs has never been clearer. Every action—big or small—counts toward ensuring these spaces remain places of joy, inclusion, and resilience.

Whether you’re a parks professional, volunteer, or simply someone who loves your local green space, your voice matters. Together, we can make sure parks and recreation stay at the heart of every thriving community.

UPCOMING SHOWS SCHEDULE

EDITOR’S PAGE

FEATURE WRAP UP

Thanks for reading this week’s edition of The Weekly Parks and Rec Post! Here’s what’s new across The Daily Parks and Rec Show:

🎬 Fresh Episodes Now Streaming

Catch the latest conversations and community highlights on our YouTube channel! New episodes feature insights from park leaders, facility experts, and youth sports advocates. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with fellow parks and rec pros.

🎤 Special Guests:

We've lined up some incredible guests in these episodes. Don’t miss out on their inspiring stories, insights, and behind-the-scenes perspectives!

🌳 Why Advocacy for Parks and Recreation Matters More Than Ever

As this week’s feature reminds us, advocacy for parks and recreation isn’t just about policies or programs—it’s about people. Every trail walked, playground built, and class attended represents the shared belief that communities thrive when they have spaces to connect, play, and grow together.

Whether you’re a recreation professional, community partner, or local resident, your voice fuels that mission. Small actions—like sharing your story, attending public meetings, or volunteering—create ripple effects that strengthen the parks and recreation movement nationwide.

Let’s keep the momentum going. Together, we can ensure that parks and recreation remain a vital part of every community’s story—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

📣 Want to be part of the story?

Share how your favorite park has shaped your life or neighborhood. Your story might be featured in an upcoming edition of The Weekly Parks and Rec Post!

📺 Catch All New Episodes:

Don’t forget to check out the latest episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show on our YouTube Channel for exciting updates and insights!

🤝 Want to Co-Create a Show with Us?

If you're a vendor or agency with deep expertise in a particular Parks and Rec field, DPRS wants to hear from you. Co-producing a show can elevate your visibility and serve the greater mission of educating and inspiring parks professionals across the country.

🔗 Get in touch with us via LinkedIn to explore collaboration ⬇️ www.linkedin.com/company/the-daily-parks-and-rec-show